Bipolar Spectrum Disorders Diagnostic Scale, BSDS Test - the question form

1. Some people experience marked changes in mood and/or energy level from time to time.

2. At times, my mood and/or energy level is very low, and at other times it is very high.

3. During “low” periods, I often have low energy; feel a need to stay in bed or sleep more than usual; and have little motivation to do things I am expected to do.

4. During these periods, I often gain weight.

5. During these “low” periods, I often or continuously feel sad, down, or depressed.

6. Sometimes, during “low” periods, I feel hopeless, or even wish to die.

7. My ability to work or function socially is impaired.

8. Typically, these “low” periods last several weeks, but sometimes they last only a few days.

9. People with this pattern of mood changes may have periods of “normal” mood (between fluctuations), during which their mood and energy feel “normal,” and their ability to work and function socially is not impaired.

10. Then they may again notice a clear “jump” or “change” in how they feel.

11. Their energy increases more and more, and they feel completely fine; however, during these periods they may be able to “move mountains,” accomplishing far more different tasks than they are usually able to do.

12. Sometimes, during these “high” periods, I feel as though I have too much energy, as if I am “overflowing” with energy.

13. During these “high” periods, I may feel “on edge,” very irritable, or even aggressive.

14. During these “high” periods, I may take on many tasks at the same time.

15. During such "high" periods, some people may spend money in ways that cause problems.

16. During these “high” periods, I may become very talkative, highly sociable, or hypersexual.

17. Sometimes during “high” periods, my behavior seems unusual or irritates others.

18. Sometimes during “high” periods, this behavior may lead to problems at work or problems with the police.

19. Sometimes during these “high” periods, I begin to misuse alcohol, take medications in an uncontrolled manner, or even use drugs.

20. Overall, how well do these statements describe your experience? Choose one option: